What DIY Steps Can I Take Before the Pros Arrive?

Your immediate priority is to stop more water from entering your home. If the leak is from a plumbing fixture, find the shutoff valve for that sink or toilet. For a burst pipe, locate the main water shutoff valve for your entire house and turn it off. If you live in Bradenton, keep your shutoff valve location written down for quick access during an emergency.

Water from outside, like storm flooding, may be harder to stop. You can try using sandbags or barriers at doorways to slow the inflow. Keep in mind that water from a natural flood can contain contaminants, so avoid direct contact. Your focus should shift to protecting your belongings and getting to safety once the water source is managed or unmanageable.

Start removing standing water using a wet/dry vacuum, mops, or towels. The sooner you extract water, the less it can soak into floors and walls. Work from the outside of the wet area toward a drain or door. Be careful not to overload electrical circuits if you are using a shop vac, and ensure it is designed for wet pickup.

Move furniture, rugs, and other valuables out of the wet area. Place aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent staining dry carpets. Lift drapes off the floor and remove wet area rugs. Take smaller items like electronics, books, and important documents to a dry room. This protects your possessions and gives the pros clear access to the damaged structure for drying.

Take clear photographs and videos of all damage before you move or clean anything. Document water levels, damaged belongings, and the source of the leak if visible. This visual record is crucial for your insurance claim. Make a written list of damaged items, including descriptions, approximate ages, and values if possible. Keep this documentation safe and organized.

Do not start permanent repairs or discard damaged items before the pros or your insurance adjuster has seen them. You can move items to a dry area, but avoid throwing them away immediately. Your insurance company may need to inspect them. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Good documentation helps support your claim and speeds up the process.

• Photograph and video all standing water, wet surfaces, and damaged items.
• Write a detailed list of affected possessions with descriptions.
• Capture the source of the water leak if it is safe and visible.
• Keep receipts for any supplies you purchase for the initial response.
• Save samples of damaged materials like carpet or wallpaper swatches.
• Do not begin permanent repairs or dispose of items before review.